Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP) is a rare condition that usually starts with a tumor in your appendix though the tumor also can be in your bowel, bladder, or ovaries.
The main treatments for Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP) are surgery and chemotherapy. Your treatment depends on the size of the cancer and your general health.
When it enters your abdomen (belly), more tumors form and make mucinous fluid, a jelly - like material. This eventually fills up your belly, which is why PMP is sometimes known as "jelly belly."
Some of the Symptoms of PMP include: :
- Changes in your Bowel Habits
- Gradual increase in Waist Size
- Swollen Belly
- Weight Loss
- Hernia (a bulge near your groin)
- Unexplained Weight Gain
The best way to treat PMP depends on the type of tumor cancerous or noncancerous the size of the tumor, and how healthy you are. Your doctor may recommend :
- Debulking Surgery :
This takes out as much of the tumor as possible. It won't cure PMP, but it can help you feel better.
- Wait and Watch :
If the tumor is small and not growing very fast, the doctor may just ask you to come in regularly to check on it.
- Cytoreductive Surgery :
Your surgeon will take out the lining of your abdomen and any tissues that are affected. Then they'll put chemotherapy drugs into your abdomen. Afterward, more chemotherapy and another cancer - fighting drug called fluorouracil may be put in the area to kill off any cells from the tumor that were left behind. This is a major operation, and it can take a long time to recover. But it can cure PMP.
- Chemotherapy :
If you can't have cytoreductive surgery, the doctor may suggest you have chemotherapy. The drugs may be put in through your veins. Or you may take them in pill form.
